A Harrogate school has strengthened its Prep School’s senior leadership team with a hat-trick of new appointments – including its first female Head.
After a “rich and fulfilling” year as Deputy Head, Abigail Hiley has been promoted to her history-making new role as Head.
She brings to it a wealth of teaching and leadership experience that spans the UK, Dubai and the esteemed Harrow International School, Hong Kong.
Other key new appointments see Jenny Tropia take up the position of Deputy Head of Prep School, and Eileen McTigue becoming Deputy Head of Pre-Prep.
Jenny was Ashville’s first United States parent liaison officer in Pre-Prep and Prep School, drawing upon more than 20 years working in education and a decade living and teaching in Connecticut in the States.
Eileen was previously the Head of Year at the British International School, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and has 20 years’ experience in primary teaching.
Head of Ashville, Rhiannon Wilkinson, said:
“After a rich and fulfilling year as Deputy Head, we’re thrilled to welcome Abigail as our first female Head of Prep School.
“Her expertise and passion for preparatory education will be invaluable as the growth and success of the ‘New Ashville’ gains further momentum.
“At a time when Ashville has been rated as a great school with ‘new energy’ in the prestigious Good Schools Guide, Abigail will lead the Prep School through the next stage of its exciting journey as we invest in both facilities and educational opportunities.”
She added:
“We are proud of our local roots as well as our increasing global reach – and Abigail, Jenny and Eileen’s wide range of international insights and expertise add a rare dimension for our pupils.”
As she stepped into her new position, Abigail said:
“I’m very much looking forward to playing an integral role in the future of our wonderful Prep School and contributing to the continued development of the ‘New Ashville’, a school rooted in tradition, yet ambitious for the future.”
“My aim is to honour what already makes Ashville such a special place, while opening up even more new opportunities for every child to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.”
She added:
“From trips and residentials to those spontaneous ‘wow’ moments that make lessons come alive, I am a big advocate of encouraging our pupils to see learning as an adventure, one that stays with them long after they leave the classroom.”
“It is an exciting time at Ashville Prep School. We have launched a new bespoke curriculum this September. Further new initiatives include Ashville Young Leaders, Girls on Board and we are working with pupils to evolve our values.”
“As well as a teaching organisation, we are also a listening one – and I see immense value in further strengthening the partnership between school and home.
“Developing responsible, compassionate young people is another key theme for the whole team here, and we are further expanding our range of charity and community initiatives, helping children understand their place in the world and their ability to make a difference.”
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